Preferred Location: Change location
Preferred Location: Change location
In 2015, there were 6,175 people living with HIV or AIDS in Orange County, with a prevalence rate of 233 per 100K people, under the California rate of 376. But health officials say that there are still a lot of people out there who haven’t been tested and don’t know they are infected.
Once a person is tested and finds that they are HIV-positive, they can begin taking PEP, which suppresses the viral load, keeping them healthy and making it less likely that the virus will be passed on. Their partners can take PrEP to protect themselves, but they should continue to use protection when having sex.
In 2017, 14,027 people in Orange County were diagnosed with chlamydia, at a rate of 438.2 per 100K people. The gonorrhea and (primary and secondary) syphilis rates were 111.7 and 11.5.
There is a Planned Parenthood in nearby Costa Mesa. They test for STIs and treat all except HIV, and the fee is on a sliding scale. You can also be tested at the Orange County Health Care Agency on 17th St. MedPost Urgent Care of Huntington Beach, on Adams Ave, also screens for STDs. Keep an eye on local events to see if you can find free STD testing during STD Awareness Month or any education campaign.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention1 (CDC) recommends screening for the most common STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, syphilis, herpes 1, herpes 2, and HIV for both men and women. In addition, the CDC suggests women get screened for trichomoniasis.
SaferSTD recommends searching for locations that offer a 10-test panel which tests for the most common bacteria and viral STDs in the U.S. with additional premium add-ons like early HIV detection, if needed.
The CDC2Â provides detailed STD testing information as to when you should get tested. In summary, you should get tested today if you are sexually active, never been tested before, have had unprotected sex in the past, or if you exhibit symptoms.Â
According to the World Health Organization3, the majority of STI cases reported every day, more than one million, are asymptomatic; another reason to get tested today.
You should get tested again in 90 days to rule out STDs that have specific exposure waiting times, including HIV.
STD testing can be a quick and simple process, depending on the type of test you choose and where you get tested. Some may require an oral or genital swab, a urine test or blood sample, or a physical exam to check your genital area for signs of an STD.
SaferSTD has identified preferred providers that require only a urine test, a blood sample, or both without a physical exam.
The speed at which you receive your STD testing results depends on where you get tested. Before you choose your location, find out how long testing results will take.Â
At-home STD testing results are usually 3-5 business days, depending on the manufacturer of your test. You also need to take into account the amount of time it takes to receive the test or pick one up, perform the test, and ship it back, before the lab can analyze your results and report back to you.Â
If you test at a public facility such as a neighborhood clinic, you may have to wait a week, if not more for the results, which could delay treatment. If you test through a private facility, they have the fastest turnaround within 1-3 business days.Â
SaferSTD has researched and identified the most accredited and most reputable testing locations. Click here to find a preferred location near you.
Some STD testing clinics offer same-day walk-in options without an appointment. Below are nearby preferred locations that offer this option.
The cost of STD testing depends on whether you select private, public, or at-home testing, as well as the type of test(s) you need.
Several at-home STD options and public testing locations can cost up to $250, with most on the higher end, depending on the brand and type of testing. Public testing fees also vary based on income and welfare eligibility.Â
With private testing, you may save money on a low-cost comprehensive 10-test panel that tests for the most common bacterial and viral STDs in the United States.Â
SaferSTD has researched and identified reputable locations that offer upfront pricing without hidden fees. Click here to find a preferred location near you.
Order a home-test kit onlineThe test takes just 5 minutes and then mail in your sampleReceive your lab results in 2 to 5 daysFDA approved technologyEnjoy free shipping
APLAHealth is primarily an HIV testing clinic but they also check for other sexually transmittable infections. In 2019 they were named a "gold quality health care center" ranking amoung the top 10 percent for their level of care.
Dr Thompson, IV is an infectious disease specialist. He has an extensive medical background and has become a primary care physician for many that have a sexually transmitted infection. He first started practicing in 2007, and has shown to have a unique understanding of the dangers associated with HIV and other STDs.
FPA Womens Health Clinic is part of a nationwide organization. Their main goal is to educate women about their sexual and reproductive health. While they are a pregnancy clinic, they also check patients that ask for STIs.
Tests are done by a technician that is licensed and qualified.
As a leader in sexual health care, Planned Parenthood has the staff and resources you need. They have decades of experience and are still continuing to improve with every new research development. They not only screen for but also treat many types of sexually transmitted infections.
Once you decide on a type of test, it only takes a few days for it to come back.
Planned Parenthood is a leader in medical research and education concerning sexual health. They have centers worldwide and continue to expand and stay at the top of the latest health innovations.
When you come in for testing, a technician will be right with you. They can answer any questions about time it takes for results. It usually depends on what test you take.
AltaMed is a family care clinic that also pays attention to their patients' sexual health. Along with pediatric and older adult care, they also provide STI testing for anyone that asks. Testing options include finger sticks or having blood drawn. It is your choice. Though both procedures are done by a licensed clinician.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
Description: Order online and receive a doctor's order to visit this lab to get tested in as little as 15 mins. Get your results privately within 1-2 business days and speak with a doctor over the phone if your test results come back positive. Doctors may prescribe treatment or refer you to a specialist if needed.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
Description: Getting an STD test at a clinic near you has never been easier. When you choose this location, you can get a doctor's requisition to get tested in as little as 15 minutes. Following your test, you receive your results privately within 2 business days, and can speak to a doctor over the phone with confidence, should results come back as positive.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
Description: Why go to a public clinic? Get convenient and fast STD testing that is 100% confidential. Individual tests under $50. Order online and visit this lab the same day for a quick 15 min test. Get your results online within 1-2 business days, and view them privately. Doctor consultation available over the phone, should results come back as positive.
These location types are best for: Privacy and convenience
Accredited and Certified
Description: Get Fast, Easy and Affordable testing at this location. Results come back within 2 business days and be in and out of the lab in less then 20 minutes.
Show only locations where privacy and discretion is taken into importance.
Show only locations where privacy and discretion is taken into importance.
Description: Closed from 12noon-1pm daily
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Show only locations where you can easily book your test online.
Description: Social Service Organization. If you are uninsured, you may qualify for a state-funded program or a lower fee scale. Most services available on a walk-in basis, but walk-in hours are subject to change
Description: Monkeypox vaccines for eligible patients by appointment only. Eligibility to be determined upon arrival based on CDC guidelines. Please call our office to make an appointment
Description: Social Service Organization. If you are uninsured, you may qualify for a state-funded program or a lower fee scale. Most services available on a walk-in basis, but walk-in hours are subject to change
Show only locations where they offer the HIV RNA Early Detection Test for people who think they may have been recently exposed to the HIV virus.
Show only locations where they offer the HIV RNA Early Detection Test for people who think they may have been recently exposed to the HIV virus.
Description: Closed daily for lunch from 1pm-2pm
Description: Service center open Mon- Fri 8:30am-5pm
Description: Must register as a patient to receive services. Closed for lunch from 12noon-1pm
Description: Must register as a patient to receive services. Closed for lunch from 12noon-1pm
Description: Public Health Department/Social Services Department. Free condoms available. PrEP and PEP offered for uninsured patients. Appointments preferred. Walk-ins will be seen based on capacity
Description: AIDS Service Organization, Community Based Organization. By appointment and walk-in
Description: Sav-On Pharmacy.
It’s slow in being released, and co-mingled with the county, but a glance at previous years shows that health of residents sexually is at an all-time low. For those that think there safe on the beach or out on the water, you will interact with people no matter where you are. What is happening in the county, is also occurring in your neighborhood. Just look up the recent statistics, when they come out, and you’ll understand why this is a “big deal”.
These figures are based upon the numbers of people who completed STD testing. Health department officials believe that the actual rates would be much higher if all people who are in the highest risk groups were to get tested.
It is a good idea to get tested every few months, even if you think that you are safe. STD and HIV testing is available on a walk-in basis. An experienced counselor will perform the test. They also hand out information afterwards on how to keep yourself safe.
APLAHealth is a STI and HIV testing center. They work with patients to make sure that they are getting the medications they need. Their services can be free, if you do not have insurance. You must be a resident of the state to qualify for this.
1043 Elm Ave #302, Long Beach, CA 90813, USA
The doctor does ask that all patients, new and returning, call the receptionist and let them know when you want to come in. He does not have a sliding scale for his fees. He does except most insurance, including Medi-Cal.
Dr Thompson's office is on Superior Ave. It's not to far from an apartment complex and mobile home park. For those residents, it is an easy walk to get there. Since he does accept Medi-Cal many of his patients do not have any out of pocket costs. This includes any treatment that might be needed.
1501 Superior Ave, Newport Beach, CA 92663, USA
When it's time for STI testing, call or look at their online schedule. Either method will get you the appointment you want. The only requirement is that you must be 12 or above. If the cost of testing is what has been holding you back. They do have free testing for those that are residents and meet their requirements for income.
Women often feel comfortable coming here, for obvious reasons. It is a women's health care center. This doesn't mean that guys will be turned away. They actually encourage partners get tested at the same time.
2777 Long Beach Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90806, USA
Walk-ins are welcome, though it is based on availability that day. Appointments are also available during the clinic's operating times. There is a small cost that is based on income for each test. If you signed up for Merck, it can take up to 20 minutes to learn if you were approved.
Planned Parenthood can provide you with screenings for STIs, counseling, education and some treatment. At this clinic fees are income based, and this covers both testing and any treatment they can provide.
1520 Nutmeg Pl #101, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, USA
You don't want to take the chance and have to come back the next day, simply because you came in unannounced. Making an appointment will save you time. It can also save you money, especially if you call. Planned Parenthood often bases fees on income. They also have Merck. Which is a plan they have that will pay for your visit, as long as your are at least 19.
This Planned Parenthood health center is a little farther away, but it is still only a 15 minute drive or so. It's not too far from 10th St. and you can get complete directions online. Just click on their map. You can get tested for infections and viruses and receive some treatment. If they are not able to help, they will give you names of clinics that can.
14372 Beach Blvd, Westminster, CA 92683, USA
You can walk in or call first. Calling lets you avoid sitting in the waiting room. If you just want to stop in, you can check their website, they post approximate wait times at regular intervals. All tests are free for everyone over 13.
AltaMed is a free HIV and Hepatitis C testing clinic. You can drop by any time they are open. Even though they cannot actually provide treatment, they can provide other services. You can find them on Huntington Ave, not too far from a bus stop.
8041 Newman Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92647, USA
In and around the surfside city you’ll see private labs that can run your results, along with public STI clinics. There really isn’t a reason to not stop by one, even if you are without a vehicle. Some are within walking distance of the beach. Bring your board, you won’t be at the lab long so don’t panic you won’t miss a big wave.
AltaMed cares for families, and individuals. An urgent care facility, they are similar to an ER only noticeably faster. While they can’t do everything that a traditional emergency room can handle, STD tests are something they perform. One center is on Newman Ave, but there are others, just contact them and they’ll direct you.
Planned Parenthood has facilities in two counties, both ready to help you with any concern you have about your health sexual or otherwise. You won’t be able to drop-in, they have too much already going on. They can waive fees if you can prove an inability to pay. This might not be applicable if you have insurance. All will be explained before you get there, along with any documents you should bring.
Women’s Health Care Specialists accept both sexes as patients, especially if it is for STD testing. Hours change each day so be prepared, and they are closed every Thursday. Once a month, patients are there on Saturdays. They’ll let you know when you are making an appt.
Immigration status can be a barrier to quality care, but not at Nhan Hoa Comprehensive Health Care Clinic. They are only concerned with their clients’ health. Registration is necessary, but you don’t have to prove citizenship. Anyone worried about language problems can speak with a translator that will clearly explain each step of the process.
Radiant Health Centers once the AIDS Service Foundation will get you tested and help if your results deem it necessary. Discrimination is never okay, and they accept any client that needs testing and or care. With more than one clinic they are capable of taking on larger caseloads, which means they can reach more community members. Rapid testing is an option, along with conventional ones.
APAIT has a health center on Garden Grove Blvd. that will run rapid tests, and most others have conventional if not both. What is right for you will depend on your level of worry, and how long you are willing to wait. If you don’t want close to instant results, a conventional oral swab or blood test will be fine. The most crucial point is to simple have one or the other type of screening done.
LGBTQ Center of Long Beach is a welcoming place for some. They never turn potential clients away, but not all feel at home here. Down the road a little is the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. Along with running a thriving thrift store to support the foundation, they provide HIV testing that is usually free. Buy or donate an outfit and learn how your health stands. They actually try to make this often-uncomfortable process fun.
Health officials are aware of the need to take fast and decisive action. Educational campaigns to reach all segments of the population with a special emphasis on those who are in the highest risk groups have been launched. Discussions continue to come up with better strategies to reach more people with education about safe sex practices and the consequences of unprotected sex.
Schools are part of the campaign but are slow to catch up. There are issues that need to be addressed that include funding for poorer districts. It is a start and as it wrinkles are fixed it should begin to make a telling difference, especially for teens and their health.
In the meantime, community groups are getting the message out. Walks are held to raise money for care, education and research, and don’t forget about the cool thrift store. Part of the proceeds goes for community education and outreach programs. You can view a complete list of various functions on the AIDS Foundation’s home web page.
The local library boasts year-round gardens and culture, but it also has a section on health. Settle into a comfy reading chair, and discreet learn what you need to know. Many of your questions will also be answered in these books. Take the initiative and start learning about your reproductive system and how STDs can affect your life.
Each page below contains a detailed report of the local area, location STD statistics and clinic reviews of some the top STD testing locations. The content is curated by our very own editors and medical experts.
